There were some specific topics I planned on covering prior to January 20th that I’m just not going to get to this week. I can’t even imagine how any president coming into office would begin fixing the problems facing our Nation based on the events that have unfolded after the November election.
Based on my Christian beliefs, I think that every person should hit their knees in prayer and make sure that the most important aspect of their life in the mortal world is in order.
We are living in unprecedented times when life as you know it can be changed in a split second. As far as the events unfolding in front of our eyes and their connection to our point in history, I will leave that to your religious leader to explain.
My quick thoughts are that every soul that has walked this planet has lived on God’s time, this is being witnessed to start 2025. Whether you’re fleeing a war-ravaged region with only the clothes on your back or if you’re fleeing the apocalyptic surroundings of Los Angeles. The similarities these human souls are facing may differ greatly; however, they face a lot in common.
Please remember I’m speaking as a Christian, and if your religious views are different, I am not trying to offend. Again, I refer you to the religious leader of your choice. However, as a Christian, I believe in the acceptance of my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and have a responsibility. This seems to be a good time to mention this, not that there’s ever a bad time.
As I write this column, there doesn’t seem to be an end to the spreading of the Los Angeles County wildfires. There has been some containment; the highest I’ve seen of an individual fire is 40%, but the pure magnitude and challenge facing those selfless individuals trying to help their fellow man is beyond belief. The potential fury of our living and breathing planet is on full display, and sometimes, man just doesn’t have an answer or the power.
My heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by the California wildfires and all those coming to their aid at this most desperate time.
I am frustrated by the cycling of news and information talking about the hows, whats, and whys and what the future holds for the victims. The most important issue at hand is the safety, well-being, and support of all involved. Again, as I mentioned earlier, this situation still hasn’t been deemed under control.
I never doubt the ability of the American spirit to rally and deal with whatever problem or disaster that is being faced. I encourage everyone to help with prayer and with whatever donation they can make. The Red Cross is usually the first on the scene in a situation like this. I know folks in our area are always most supportive during times of trouble. Please make sure your donation is to a legitimate agency. There are those who take advantage of human tragedy for financial gain. This is especially important to the older individuals in your life. They are often targeted because of their kindness and generosity.
As I attempted to take a break from news events to watch the Orange Bowl between Penn State and Notre Dame, the network presenting the game had already begun a mass effort on behalf of the American Red Cross. The tragic events that began the year had already delayed the college football playoffs. This began with the Sugar Bowl in New Orleans, but the game went on at the venue designated. The same cannot be said for the Los Angeles Rams home NFL playoff game, which has already been moved to Glendale, Arizona, by the LA County wildfires.
The decisions made regarding the postponement or delay of recent sporting events have been the right ones. Although they have been questioned by many when first made. They have secured the public safety and well-being of all involved in the areas where they’re being held.
I’ve already acknowledged that sports provide me a great distraction from the real world. The question I’ll end with this week is, when do common sense and reality outweigh the playing of the game? And I should probably add that I know how much money is involved for some.
I completely understand the American spirit is to defy anyone or anything that challenges our freedom and ability to move around our country. This same defiance seems to mirror the importance of competition even during these unprecedented times.
May God Bless and help America.
